Latest developments on United States Visas and Immigration Laws
"DHS changes H-1B worker visa selection process."
Published: 02/09/2026
The Department of Homeland Security is replacing the previously used, long-standing "H-1B lottery" randomized process with a new one .
According to the new H-1B visa selection process for 2027, the agency will prioritize foreign workers with higher skills and earnings, without negatively impacting the US-based workforce.
Another critical change regarding alien workers under the H-1B program is that now US employers need to pay $100,000 to sponsor a foreigner to work in the United States.
"United States to suspend immigrant visa applications for 75 countries."
Published: 01/16/2026
Effective January 21, 2026, the US Immigration Authorities will suspend processing of any immigration petitions, also known as "Green Card" applications, from citizens of countries that appear to rely on various welfare programs in the United States.
The affected countries are in Latin America, with the largest by population, Brazil and Colombia; many Eastern European countries, including Russia and Kazakhstan; Asian countries like Thailand and Burma; Middle Eastern countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan; Caribbean nations like Jamaica and Haiti; and African nations like Nigeria and Somalia. The complete list is available on the US Department of State website.
Note: this change doesn't apply to non-immigrant visas, such as visitor, student, or work visas for foreigners.
"H-1B and H-4 Visa applicants need to pass extended screening."
Published: 12/08/2025
The US Department of State will expand the screening process to include online and social media activity for applicants for H-1B visas and their dependents under H-4 visas for spouses and children.
The new requirements apply to citizens of all nations and are intended to identify individuals who pose security risks to the United States or public safety of US citizens.
Previously, similar requirements were issued for F-1 and M-1 Student visa holders and Exchange visitors under the J-1 visa program.